Blog Post

How AIS SART Devices Work: A Deep Dive into Search and Rescue Technology

Posted By: April 19 2024

Understanding the Meaning of AIS SART Devices

Search and rescue at sea is critical for ensuring the safety of mariners in distress. AIS SART devices, also known as Automatic Identification System Search and Rescue Transponders, play a crucial role in this life-saving process.

This blog delves into the world of AIS SART devices, explaining their functionality, benefits, and how they aid in maritime search and rescue operations.

How AIS SART Devices Work?

An AIS SART device is a compact, portable electronic device designed for use on survival crafts like life rafts or lifeboats. In the unfortunate event of a vessel abandoning a situation, such as a sinking ship or fire onboard, the AIS SART device becomes a vital tool for search and rescue.

Here's a breakdown of how AIS SART devices work:

Activation: AIS SART devices can be activated manually using a readily accessible button or switch. In some models, automatic activation triggered by immersion in water may be available.
Transmission: Once activated, the AIS SART device transmits a continuous distress signal on the designated AIS (Automatic Identification System) frequency. This distress signal includes the unique identification code (MMSI) of the vessel in distress.
Detection by AIS-equipped Vessels: Any nearby vessels equipped with an operational AIS receiver can detect the distress signal transmitted by the AIS SART device. The AIS receiver will display the location and identification information of the distress beacon on the vessel's electronic chart display system (ECDIS) or radar screen.
Search and Rescue Coordination: The vessel that detects the distress signal from the AIS SART device can relay the information to the relevant search and rescue authorities. This allows search and rescue teams to locate the survival craft quickly and efficiently.

AIS SART devices operate on a different principle compared to traditional Radar SARTs (Search and Rescue Transponders).

Radar SARTs rely on a radar signal from a searching vessel to trigger a response, limiting their effectiveness if no radar search is being conducted.

AIS SART devices offer a more proactive approach, transmitting a continuous distress signal that can be detected by any AIS-equipped vessel within range, regardless of whether they are actively searching.

Benefits of AIS SART Devices Onboard Ship

Equipping your vessel with an AIS SART device offers several advantages in terms of maritime safety:

Increased Chance of Rescue: The continuous distress signal transmitted by AIS SART devices significantly increases the chances of being located by nearby vessels, even during nighttime or low visibility conditions.
Faster Response Times: The real-time transmission of location data by AIS SART devices allows search and rescue teams to pinpoint the distress location quickly, leading to faster response times and improved rescue outcomes.
Simplified Search Operations: The automatic identification information transmitted by AIS SART devices eliminates the need for time-consuming manual identification procedures during search operations.
Compact and Portable Design: AIS SART devices are lightweight and compact, making them easy to store on board and readily deploy in an emergency situation.

Conclusion

AIS SART devices are a valuable addition to any vessel's safety equipment. Their user-friendly operation, reliable performance, and ability to transmit continuous distress signals on the AIS frequency make them a critical tool for search and rescue at sea.

Investing in an AIS SART device demonstrates a commitment to maritime safety and provides peace of mind knowing you have an effective tool to aid your rescue in case of an emergency.

Ready to equip your vessel with a reliable AIS SART device? Marinetech offers a variety of high-quality AIS SART devices and other GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) equipment to ensure your vessel is well-equipped for safe navigation and emergency preparedness.